Full-Time  •  School Year Position (Mid-August to Mid-June)

About Montessori School of Yakima 

Montessori School of Yakima (MSY) is dedicated to creating a purposeful, peaceful, and enriching environment based on the philosophy and principles of Dr. Maria Montessori. Within this environment, MSY nurtures the children of our community to become competent, compassionate, and confident people who respect and contribute to the world in which they live. We inspire a love of learning, foster independence, and cultivate a sense of community among our students, families, and staff. MSY is a private, nonsectarian school serving students from Toddler through 8th grade. 

Position Overview 

MSY is seeking a warm, skilled, and dedicated Lead Montessori Guide to lead one of our Primary classrooms (ages 3–6) for the upcoming school year. The Lead Guide is responsible forcreating and maintaining a prepared environment, delivering individualized Montessori lessons, and nurturing each child’s development across all domains. This is a full-time position operatingon an academic calendar year (mid-August to mid-June). 

Key Responsibilities 

• Plan and deliver Montessori lessons across all curriculum areas (practical life, sensorial, language, mathematics, and cultural studies) 

• Maintain a beautiful, orderly, and intentionally prepared classroom environment 

• Observe and assess student progress, maintaining accurate records and creating individualized learning plans 

• Foster a positive classroom community grounded in respect, empathy, and collaboration 

• Communicate regularly with families through conferences, written reports, and informal check-ins 

• Collaborate with the Assistant Guide and support staff to maintain consistency and community 

• Actively participate in staff meetings, professional development, and school events 

• Uphold MSY’s mission, vision, and values in all interactions and responsibilities 

Qualifications 

• Montessori Primary (3–6) credential (AMI or AMS) preferred; candidates with experience in Montessori or early childhood education and a genuine commitment to Montessori philosophy are strongly encouraged to apply — MSY will provide Montessori training for the right candidate 

• Bachelor's degree in Education or a related field preferred; candidates without a degree are encouraged to apply and will be expected to work toward completing a bachelor's degree within an agreed-upon timeframe as a condition of continued employment 

• Previous experience working with children ages 3–6 in an educational setting 

• Strong understanding of child development and the ability to meet the needs of diverse learners 

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues, students, and families 

• Enthusiasm for a collaborative school environment and commitment to ongoing professional growth 

• Ability to pass a background check and meet all state licensing requirements 

Compensation & Benefits 

• Salary: $34,000–$40,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications; annual increases of 3–10% depending on budget and merit; eligible for a yearly bonus 

• Health care benefits offered 

• Retirement plan after one year of employment 

• Employees working full time receive 50% off tuition and free before & after school care for their children enrolled at MSY 

• Salary staff begin with ten personal days per school year 

• Professional development opportunities and support for continuing education 

• A supportive, inclusive school community dedicated to the Montessori philosophy 

How to Apply

To apply, please submit a cover letter, résumé, and a list of three professional references to: 

Sarah DeKalb-Roy - director@msofy.org 

In your cover letter, please share your experience with or interest in the Montessori philosophy and your approach to creating a supportive, prepared environment for young children. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis; position open until filled. 

MSY is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive community. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. Candidates from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.